Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question
Should exotic animals be pets?
Position1 of 2

No, exotic animals should not be pets

This position holds that exotic animals should not be kept as pets. It argues that doing so endangers both the animals and people — exotic pets can be dangerous, carry disease, and cannot receive proper care in captivity — and that ownership is, in many cases, already against the law.

Supporting arguments · 4

  1. Exotic animals are dangerous to their owners and others
    There are reports of exotic animals attacking their owners or escaping into the community.
  2. Exotic animals smell and carry diseases
    Many wild animals are messy with unpleasant odors and carry bacteria and diseases that are hazardous to people.
  3. Owning exotic animals is against the law
    Owning exotic or wild animals is regulated by complicated and overlapping federal, state, and local laws. They typically vary depending on the community and type of animal. These laws are in place to protect the safety of the animals as well as the people involved.
  4. Exotic animals can't get the proper care in captivity
    Owners often lack the knowledge or money to adequately care for their exotic animals. Private zoos are often part of large breeding and selling organizations.